Dr Ralph Abraham, left, and MP Keith Vaz at the launch of the London Medical Type 2 Care Plan.
According to figures from Diabetes UK, the number of people in the UK diagnosed with diabetes has increased from 1.4 million to 2.9 million since 1996. By 2025, it is estimated that five million people will have diabetes.
The survey also revealed that almost half (48%) of patients feel that there is a stigma associated with diabetes in the wider community. When asked to name the biggest challenge in managing their diabetes, many patients focused on issues such as weight management, choosing the “right” foods, controlling sugar intake and avoiding hidden sugars in foods. According to the findings of a survey commissioned by London Medical, 83% of Type 2 diabetes patients want to see contact with a health care professional increased to more than once a year to help manage their condition, and a third (33%) of those questioned are willing to pay for an improved level of care.
These findings have inspired the launch of a new personalised, comprehensive Diabetes Care Plan set to revolutionise the standard of care available to diabetes patients. The new programme will provide affordable and accessible care packages as an alternative to the current NHS offering
The survey also explores issues around the information and education available to Type 2 diabetes patients and found that 90% of patients feel that it is important to keep up to date with the latest information on diabetes care. However, almost one in five (18%) of Type 2 diabetes patients rated the quality of information available currently as “average” or “poor”. Diet is a hot topic for patients, with 59% of those surveyed saying they wanted better information in this area. This includes updates on new technology in diabetes care, such as improvements in blood glucose monitors (50%), as well as simple, clear medical information and advice on self-management and care.
Patients also wanted more advice and reassurance, especially on the effects on blood glucose levels from active participation in sports and activities, and dealing with difficulties while travelling across time zones.
The Diabetes Care Plan will be available at London Diabetes – a specialised diabetes centre based within the London Medical clinic, which has, over the last 20 years, established a reputation for delivering patient care for people with diabetes. The continuous care scheme gives consistent support to patients in managing their diabetes, as well as access to the latest in education and technological developments in diabetes and obesity management. Appointments with a specialist consultant will be available Monday to Friday and at short notice where required and where possible.
Dr Ralph Abraham, Clinical Director at London Medical comments, “We have a strong heritage in diabetes care at London Medical, having pioneered and delivered personalised expert care here for over 20 years. Our clinical expertise is outstanding in the field and we’re delighted to have developed this new model to enable even more patients to benefit from education, support and the most advanced treatments and technology available.”
